Charles Cecil Micheal Big Back Jr. (Vo’ho’kas – Light), a Northern Cheyenne of Portland, Oregon was called home to Ma’heo’o on December 28, 2025 at the age of 36. Born on September 16, 1989 in Portland, Oregon, he was the direct descendant of traditional Big Back Chiefs of the Swift Fox-Kit Fox Society. Junior is Dine’ (Navajo)/Northern Cheyenne. Born to Kinyaa’aanii (Towering House), To’aheedliinii (Mexican/Running Water); born from Northern Cheyenne (Suh’tai). Junior spent majority of his years in Portland, Oregon, and briefly in Busby and Lame Deer, Montana, living with his family
Up until the end Junior maintained compassion, appreciation of beauty, love of family and friends, especially his kids and wife Maria, he experienced an abundance of each. He was a loving father, survived by his wife Maria George and his children: Charles III, David Joe, and Aurora. Only beloved son of Charles Sr and Debby Big Back of Busby, Montana. Loved to annoy his sisters Deblinda Lindsey and Charold Big Back. Joked with brother-in-law, Chris Lindsey Sr.. Loving hugs to his nieces and nephew: Kailyn, Shaudi, Valyntina, Chris Jr., and granddaughter Jadzia (Shaudi’s baby). Loved by his uncles Eugene Big Back Jr, Benno Big Back Sr, Kenny Big Back(Tenaya), Darius Barney, and his aunts Elisha Big Back, Sharona Blackwolf, Mabeline Big Back, Genie Duhart(Kenneth).
Charles Jr is preceded in death by his maternal grandparents David Lee Barney and Helena House of Arizona. His paternal grandparents Eugene Big Back Sr. and Gloria Redneck of Montana. His aunt Ora louise Big Back. Cousins Jaquelyn McDonald, Xavier McDonald, Benno Big Back Jr..
Junior enjoyed and the loved the game of basketball, his talent skills was noticeable on the court, scouted by D-1 colleges before his knee injuries in high school. Played on Elite teams (Nike Legends, Triple Threat) that traveled across the United States in 100+ team participating, many teams in Portland, OR, and Seattle, WA, as well as, Native Basketball tournaments across the Northwest. He played with Reynolds “Raiders” High School in Portland, Oregon and Lame Deer “Morning Star” High School.
Jr participated in football and baseball leagues and in high school, also, enjoyed watching the games live or on tv, often calling his dad to talk about the highlights of the games. Not everyone know he also watched Women’s college hoops, volleyball, sometimes, track & field. More recently, WNBA which he praised players. All-around guy.
Jr grew up dancing within the powwow arena throughout the country, dancing in Northern traditional and grass. After his grandmother Gloria’s passing he cut his long braids and danced his last exhibition. But enjoyed watching from the sideline.
He met his love Maria George, his best friend to the end & eternity. When Jr became a 1st time father, he just about fainted at the birth room, several nurses had to check on him in the corner. Yet, once baby 3rd was whisked away to the baby room he followed him. Next DJ (David Joe) was born, his lil mini-me; then Aurora, his lil princess. He so loved his children, he couldn’t imagine living without them in his life.
Jr lived the life of both Native and city that naturally surrounded him with many friends throughout his life. He was that tall handsome cool dude that always seemed to expressed funny faces at picture time. That guy that always reached out to family by calls and text messages to check up on them and remind us how much he loves us, pray for us, encouraged us to stay strong, and stay blessed.
Relatives of Charles Jr. include members from the following families: Barney, House, Redhouse from Arizona. From Montana: Big Back, Standing Elk, Littlewolf, Strange Owl, Redneck,Wolfblack, Blackwolf,Sandcrane, Shoulderblade, Yellowrobe, Rising Sun, Fisher, Limberhand. We have a large loving family. We apologize in advance if we have forgotten to mention anyone by name. Thanks also to Stevenson & Sons Funeral Homes for organizing services on behalf of the family. Ha-ho to our family & friends that helped out and supported us during this difficult time.
Service Schedule
Traditional Wake
6:00 pm
Wednesday January 7, 2026
Lame Deer Mennonite Church
Lame Deer, MT
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Bo Bergstrom says
RIP to one of my best friends in Oregon… Charles was a great basketball player, a great friend, & hailed from a wonderful family. RIP to my brother! 🙏🏽
Lloydine Runsabove says
Journey well Charlie, it is an honor to have walked beside you and Maria. It was a true privilege to get to know the two of you, I will forever cherish the memories I have. My condolences to the family, my heart and prayers are with you all.